The Other Drake: An In-Depth Look at the Upcoming Box Set of Nick Drake's Lost Works

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Legacy of Nick Drake
4. Turning Tides: The New Box Set
5. The Catalyst for Release
6. Archival Gold: What’s Inside
7. The Broader Implications
8. Conclusion
9. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Upcoming Release: "The Making of Five Leaves Left," set for July 25, features previously unreleased recordings from Nick Drake's debut album.
• Family Discovery: The release comes after the estate found significant archival material, leading to nine years of preparation.
• Album Legacy: Nick Drake’s music, although limited to three albums during his life, has gained a cult following, influencing artists across genres.

Introduction

Barack Obama’s annual summer playlist has always been a blend of surprising tracks, but his inclusion of Nick Drake’s “One of These Things First” in 2024 truly stands out. This decision bears witness to the enduring legacy of the British singer-songwriter, whose career was tragically short-lived but profoundly impactful. Over 50 years since his passing, Nick Drake continues to resonate with music lovers across generations, which underscores the relevance of an upcoming event in the music industry: the release of "The Making of Five Leaves Left," a significant box set that promises to unveil more of his artistry than previous releases. This article explores the nuances of this box set, the historical context surrounding Nick Drake’s music, and what this means for his legacy in contemporary music.

The Legacy of Nick Drake

Nick Drake's music strikes a chord with listeners, often categorized under the umbrella of sadcore, a genre that captures deeply introspective emotions. His distinctive blend of folk, jazz, and rock creates a hauntingly ethereal sound that has influenced artists ranging from Radiohead to Bon Iver. His life, marked by uncertainty and ultimately, tragedy, adds to the poignancy of his small yet rich discography.

Drake released three albums between 1969 and 1972: Five Leaves Left, Bryter Layter, and Pink Moon. While commercially unsuccessful at the time of their release, these albums garnered critical acclaim over the years, leading to a devoted following and sustained interest in his work. It is a testament to his artistry that musicians from various backgrounds continue to cite him as an influence, creating a renewed sense of interest and demand for his unreleased works.

Turning Tides: The New Box Set

Scheduled for release on July 25, "The Making of Five Leaves Left" is an extraordinary addition to Nick Drake’s catalog. This four-disc set marks the first major archival exploration dedicated to tracing the creative process of his 1969 debut album. Included are early recording sessions, outtakes, and a comprehensive documentation of Drake’s work at London’s Sound Techniques studio—all of which help to flesh out the formation of an album that has become a touchstone in the folk genre.

The set captures early renditions of cult classics such as “Way to Blue,” “River Man,” “Time Has Told Me,” and “Day Is Done.” It also features unique takes, such as a “radically different” version of “Strange Face.” Notably, one track, often described as revolutionary, is a version of “Day Is Done,” where Drake opts to sing without his guitar—a departure from his usual practice that showcases his vocal talents.

The Catalyst for Release

For years, Nick Drake's family—particularly his sister Gabrielle Drake, who oversees his estate—has prioritized focusing fan attention on the existing three albums rather than digging into unreleased materials. However, a pivotal change occurred when remarkable tapes from external sources were discovered, one even found at the bottom of an old drawer. These discoveries expedited the decision to produce this extensive compilation, which took nearly a decade to bring to fruition.

This newfound transparency reflects a significant shift in the approach of Drake's estate. By committing to a project reminiscent of expansive box sets from other iconic musicians like Bob Dylan and the Grateful Dead, the estate is allowing a broader narrative around Drake’s creativity and his endeavors in music to be shared with the public.

Archival Gold: What’s Inside

The box set consists of four discs or four LPs and encompasses an organized selection of tracks designed to tell a story rather than merely compiling every recording. The first disc features Drake's initial session recordings, while subsequent tracks include rehearsal tapes believed to be preparations for a college concert around the album's production timeframe.

Accompanying the music is a meticulously crafted 60-page booklet containing pertinent recording information, photographs, and other memorabilia. This booklet is crucial in contextualizing the history behind each track, providing fans with deeper insights into Drake's creative journey.

The Broader Implications

The re-emergence of Nick Drake’s work within both scholarly discourse and casual listening habits illustrates a cultural and artistic resurgence. This expansion into unreleased materials can serve multiple purposes:

1. Conservation of Music History: It brings forth important conversations about preserving musical legacies of artists who faced struggles in their lifetimes and suggests a responsibility to keep their stories alive.

2. Influence on Contemporary Artists: Diving into Drake’s unreleased works allows modern musicians to extract inspiration, reinforcing the cyclical nature of music creation across generations.

3. The Role of Streaming: The modern consumption of music through streaming platforms plays a pivotal role in the rediscovery of artists like Drake. The algorithm-driven landscape opens avenues for new listeners who might be unaware of his original impact, further expanding his audience base.

4. Cultural Commentary: The consistent relevance of Drake's music in the zeitgeist highlights ongoing themes of mental health and the human experience—topics that resonate deeply amid contemporary societal challenges.

Conclusion

Nick Drake's enduring influence and the anticipation surrounding "The Making of Five Leaves Left" reflect the evolving landscape of music appreciation and critique. As July 25 draws closer, fans of the artist can prepare for a treasure trove of material that not only re-contextualizes his work but offers insights into the evolving nature of music, artistry, and personal expression.

FAQ

What is "The Making of Five Leaves Left"?

This upcoming box set is an extensive collection of Nick Drake's recordings, including early takes and outtakes from his debut album, Five Leaves Left.

When is the box set being released?

The release date is scheduled for July 25.

Why has this box set been created now?

The release is made possible by the discovery of significant archival material by Nick Drake's family, which includes unreleased recordings and rehearsal tapes.

How many discs are included in the box set?

The box set includes four discs (or four LPs) of material.

Will there be any additional materials included with the box set?

Yes, a 60-page booklet will accompany the box set, featuring recording information and photographs related to the project.

How has Nick Drake’s music influenced contemporary artists?

Nick Drake's sound has inspired a range of artists across various genres, most notably influencing the likes of Radiohead, Bon Iver, and many others in their approaches to songwriting and lyricism.

Is this the first time previously unreleased material from Nick Drake has been shared?

Yes, this box set represents the first significant archival exploration into unreleased works from Nick Drake since his death in 1974.

What themes can we expect in the music included in the box set?

Listeners can anticipate themes of introspection, melancholy, and the complexities of human emotion, which are characteristic of Nick Drake's songwriting style.

How can I preorder the box set?

The box set is available for preorder through authorized music retailers; details can be found on the Universal Music website.

The forthcoming box set promises not only to enrich the understanding of Nick Drake's artistry but also serves as a vital reminder of the enduring impact of his music in an ever-evolving landscape.